Some beautiful country out there. Did the family car trip to the black hills years ago. Enjoy your tip and be safe. Looking forward to your updates and pictures!

 

On the traveling by bike. Whats the best thing a guy can do for security on the bike while spending the night in a motel room or being away from the bike. my ride 2016 heritage w/out the factory security system.

 

Take everything inside the hotel. Park the bike in a well lit area, outside your room or near the office is usually good. I usually request a ground floor, especially if the rooms open the outside, and not a hallway. Lock the steering and bags. Make sure your insurance is paid up. I figure it's no different than leaving your car unattended.

 

For the over-night, I like covering the bike. Some people might think a cover actually incites someone to check out your bike - "since its covered, it must be worth stealing". While I understand that, I think a cover helps make a bike "less noticeable" to most people, including the curious.

On the 'where to park' in the hotel parking lot ......... unlike most, I dont like parking right up front near the office. Too many people strolling by carrying luggage in the dark, pushing a stroller, while tired, etc. I dont want to be 'way in the back', either, where I'm more vulnerable. Its a compromise. I do like a parking spot where I can take advantage of parking next to a curb or something that prevents someone from parking on both/all sides next to/around me, to help ensure I'm not next to some ******* swinging their car door wide open into my bike.

I also try to factor in where the kiddies will be playing soccer or whatnot near or even IN the parking lot, and avoid those potential areas.

Each situation is different and there is always some compromising.


Please remember that most people dont give a **** about THEIR OWN stuff, let alone YOUR stuff.

 

You're about to enjoy some of the best riding around. Watch for deer late in the afternoon. As far as bike security is concerned, I've lost track of how many times I've been in the Hills over the last 20 years and I've never had anyone mess with my bike. Just use common sense when you park for the night. Have fun!

 

The bike is all packed, cleaned and ready to roll. The plan is to wake up early, have breakfast with the wife, then hit the road. The weather forecast isn't as nice as it was when I reserved my room, but such is life.

 

Enjoy!

 

Let the good times roll.

 

Let the adventure begin.

 

Ride safe, man. The bike wont be clean for long!